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Lunar Walk at HMP Edinburgh

HMP Edinburgh was delighted to hold its second Lunar Walk on the 12th June to support Breast Cancer and the Walk the Walk charity. We have been overwhelmed with the response from our female population within the establishment with several individuals signing up to participate in the event. The idea was initially raised last year by one of our female offenders and was taken forward by our Events Committee. The event has been supported by our NHS Healthcare partners who have provided drop in sessions and awareness packs to highlight Breast Cancer issues. It has also highlighted services available within the establishment and encouraged prisoners to access a wider range of Healthcare services.

Many individuals within the wider establishment were also extremely keen to support the event having had family members who have been affected by the disease.They were able to support the event through donations, following a bake sale or by merely pledging donations to this extremely worthwhile cause.

Our thanks in particular go to Nina, Jessica and Sally from Walk the Walk who gave up time from their particularly busy schedules to come in and support our event, recognising the achievements of the women who have taken part. Their support has been invaluable and ensured this event has been a tremendous success.

The benefits of this challenge have been considerable, developing already positive working relationships between offenders and staff through a common goal, increased use of the gymnasium by our female population and highlighted the profile of Breast Cancer issues and the importance of regular checking, as well as raising funds for charity.

One woman taking part said “I have always know about Moonwalk but never thought about taking part, so this is a good opportunity for me to do something positive with my time in custody”. Another said “I initially asked if we could participate in Moonwalk this year after hearing an advert on the radio. I never realised that people from Moonwalk would want to give up their time to come and see us in prison, this will stay with me the rest of my life”.

Pictured are Sally Orr and Jessica Wylie from the Walk the Walk team with some of the women participating in the walk.